Only One Incumbent Defeated in Legislative Primaries

by Kenny Colston on May 22, 2012

At least one incumbent member of the Kentucky House will not be returning to Frankfort next year.

Republican-turned-Democrat Wade Hurt has lost his primary to union activist Jeff Donohue. Wade ran as a Republican in 2010 against Donohue, who has remained a Democrat. Hurt switched parties shortly after that election, saying it would help him better serve his district.

No other incumbent House or Senate members lost their seats to primary challengers, though some will face tough re-election battles in the general election.

In two open races, Democrat Morgan McGarvey won the nomination in 19th District, where no Republican is running. Chris Girdler won the GOP primary for the 15th state Senate District, and has no Democratic opposition.